hing, they were
reluctantly obliged to return to the place which they had fixed upon
as their rendezvous. In their way thither they gathered some more
cocoa-nuts, and having satisfied their hunger and thirst, lay down to
rest, under the canopy of heaven, and with no softer bed than what the
sandy beach afforded.

The next morning the men again declared their intention of walking in
search of the plantation mentioned by Mr. Price. Mr. Malcolm, who had
become the senior officer in the absence of Mr. McDonnell, advised
them to remain where they were, and to build a hut, and dig a well for
water; he assured them that, as long as there was a plentiful supply
of cocoa-nuts, they could not starve, and that the chances were,
assistance would arrive. All was, however, to no purpose; they would
not listen to any argument, and even disregarded his authority. It was
as much as he could do to insist upon their first going in search of
their commander.

After a long time employed for this purpose, they discovered Mr.
McDonnell asleep beneath a parmetta tree. Upon hearing footsteps
approaching, he awoke, but in such a feeble state that he was unable
to rise without assistance, and from the wildness of his manner, there
was too much reason to fear that his reason had fled. They gave him
some cocoa-nut milk, which he eagerly drank, and this appeared to give
him some relief. With difficulty they made him comprehend that they
intended to proceed to the plantation for assistance, but he refused
to join them, alleging that a boat was coming for him. In a short time
he appeared a little more collected, and agreed to join the
expedition. There still remained a small supply of rum, and a portion
of this being poured into some empty cocoa-nuts, it was distributed
equally amongst the men, and they all commenced their journey, the men
about 200 yards ahead, and Mr. McDonnell, supported by Malcolm and Mr.
Price, brought up the rear.

After proceeding in this way about two miles, Mr. McDonnell's strength
utterly failed, and he sank down upon the ground, declaring that he
could go no further; every entreaty was urged to persuade him to make
another effort, but both the powers of the mind and body had deserted
the unfortunate officer, and Malcolm and his companion were at a loss
to know what course to pursue. After a brief consultation they
determined to leave Mr. McDonnell, and as soon as they reached the
plantation, which Mr. Price declared cou